The pressure has eased but it’s definitely not disappeared.
Louis van Gaal was a dead man walking a few weeks ago but there seems to be a bit of reprieve after a pair of better-than-usual Manchester United performances against Chelsea and Swansea.
With his job perpetually in danger and Pep Guardiola having spoken at length about his desire to move to the Premier League at the end of the Bundesliga season, of course two and two were going to be put together.
Manchester City are undeniably favourites to land the current Bayern Munich manager but United remain in the discussion.
Van Gaal was asked about Guardiola’s position in his Friday press conference and the Dutchman remained apathetic.
“I’m at the end of my career so for me it’s not so interesting,” he said. “For me it’s only interesting how I take care of Manchester United. And after this season I still have one year to go.
“I have received a contract for three years and the goals I said when I arrived are the same to win trophies.”
Van Gaal was pressed for an opinion on the fact that Guardiola expressed an opinion to switch leagues while still in a job but, again, he didn’t bite.
“I said that two years ago also (that he wanted to manage in the Premier League). It’s not so strange, you have to set always your goals, as a manager also.”
